Consultant medical microbiologist and deputy director of Infection Prevention and Control at Leicester’s Hospitals, Dr David Jenkins said:

“Low levels of Legionella are not a cause for concern, however high levels can cause a form of pneumonia called Legionnaires disease so we undertake routine testing to ensure the risk is kept low.

“Recent tests on wards 28 and 29 at Leicester General Hospital have triggered our safety plan, meaning showers on these wards will be out of use until further notice and alternative body washing arrangements will be introduced. Bottled drinking water will also be provided for patients and staff but boiled drinks such as tea and coffee remain safe to drink.

“We would like to reassure our patients that the risk of Legionnaires disease for our patients remains low and they are safe. We would like to emphasise that the measures being taken are precautionary and there are no known cases of infection linked to this incident.”